Save Pali, ancient classical Indian language of Buddhism in India

This petition is to protest the recent Indian government’s decision to remove the Pali, ancient classical language of India as a subject from the main examination of the Civil Services examination of India conducted by UPSC (Union Public service Commission). According to another news, Pali is removed from the list of the classical languages of India. Pali, which is said to be the dialect of the Buddha’s own teachings contained in Tipitaka, which is a treasure of Indian and Buddhist knowledge and became carrier of the propagation of Buddhism in the entire world, is on the verge of dying in its own motherland.

This decision of Indian government is illogical, unjustified and reflects ignorance of Indian bureaucrats and political leaders towards its own heritage. The removal of Pali by UPSC calls for a strong protest not only by those who are related with the Pali & Buddhist Studies but also by all those who study, respect or relate themselves with Indology or Buddhism in whatever ways.

Let’s raise our voice against this unwise decision by signing this petition addressed to Dr. Manmohan Singh, The Prime Minister of India to mount a pressure on Government of India to withdraw its decision.